Pope Leo XIV Addresses Trump's Claims on Iran's Nuclear Program
Pope's Response to Trump's Accusations
Pope Leo XIV has reacted following accusations from US President Donald Trump, who alleged that the pontiff supports Iran's nuclear weapons initiative—a claim the Vatican has not validated. During an interview with Hugh Hewitt on Salem News Channel, Trump criticized the pope's public remarks, suggesting they indicate a tacit approval of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Trump stated, "The pope would rather discuss the notion that it's acceptable for Iran to possess a nuclear weapon, which I believe is quite concerning. He is putting many Catholics and others at risk… he seems to think it's perfectly fine for Iran to have such a weapon."
While the pope did not directly address Trump, he reaffirmed the Church's longstanding opposition to nuclear arms. He remarked, "From the very beginning, I have conveyed 'Peace be with you.' The Church's mission is to spread the Gospel and promote peace. If anyone wishes to criticize me for sharing the Gospel, let them do so honestly." He further emphasized, "The Church has consistently opposed all nuclear weapons for many years, and there is no doubt about that." This exchange occurs just days before Marco Rubio's scheduled visit to the Vatican.
According to the US State Department, Rubio is set to meet with senior officials from the Holy See to discuss the Middle East and other mutual interests. Trump has often connected the pope's peace advocacy with his interpretation of the Vatican's position on Iran. In a separate social media post, he expressed, "I don't want a Pope who believes it's acceptable for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon." The pontiff has previously called for a world free from nuclear threats and has urged leaders to engage in diplomatic efforts.
During a speech at St. Peter's Basilica on April 12, he stated, "It is time for peace! We must gather at the table of dialogue and mediation, not at the table where rearmament is planned and deadly actions are determined." In response to inquiries at a White House briefing, Rubio dismissed claims that Trump accused the pope of endorsing Iran's nuclear goals. He clarified, "I don't think that's an accurate portrayal of what he said," adding that the administration's stance is that Iran should not have nuclear capabilities. Rubio also criticized Iran for "holding the entire world hostage" through its actions in the Strait of Hormuz and warned of the dangers if Iran were to obtain nuclear weapons. He questioned, "What do you think they would do if they had a nuclear weapon? They would hold the world hostage with that nuclear weapon."